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Has Wenger’s new formation saved Monreal’s Arsenal career?

When rumors of an Arsenal move for the Schalke left-back Sead Kolasinac emerged, the first thought on everyone’s mind was that the Bosnian will take the place of Nacho Monreal, who has had a topsy-turvy campaign this term to say the least. With age not on the side of the player either, it seemed as though it was going to be a matter of time before he was shown the door at the Emirates.

But ever since Arsenal changed into a back-three system, the Spaniard has excelled and put in some really good performances. Nacho has played every game since Arsenal made the switch and has adapted extremely well to the new wing-back role and has also displayed versatility by playing as a centre-back in the three-man defence. Despite an error or two, his positional awareness has been good and perhaps the best aspect of his game is the attacking outlet he provides while bombing down Arsenal’s left side.

With Kolasinac now seemingly on his way after bidding farewell to his teammates and the fans during Schalke’s final game in the Bundesliga, it remains to be seen as to what the future holds for the former Malaga man. But in my opinion, his high fitness levels and attacking prowess along with his versatility will be valuable assets for the club going forward, despite the imminent arrival of the Schalke star.

Because Arsenal have shifted to a three-at-the-back system, there is always room for an extra defender and the fact that Nacho is versatile in terms of positioning works in his favour. So with that being said, I fully expect the Spanish international to continue his stay at the Emirates. Let’s hope that he carry on the form of the latter parts of the season into the Gunners’ next campaign.

Although Nacho is ageing and has had some inconsistent moments this season, I would definitely have him over Gibbs. Nacho is much better in possession, has a much better final ball compared to Gibbs, is more versatile and is more defensively aware. Would be nice to see some healthy competition between Kolasinac and Monreal next season.

Yes that’s all well and good but Monreal was also a huge hindrance to us this season. At first I thought it’s a blip he’ll shake it off, but then it got worse and worse. To let him off the hook would be the equivalent of forgiving Arsenal then praising them for their last few games. We got Kolasinac because he (Monreal) can’t be relied on, if he had of played like this all season, I have no doubt ..Arsene would hold off on getting another fullback. And we wouldn’t be asking for one except maybe a wonder-kid to take Gibbs place. That said, going by his latest games occasionally the man has looked like Rambo. Seeing him lately you’d have to ask what was the bloody story with him during the season, was it some life issue we didn’t hear about or did he just drop his focus and it effected his confidence, I don’t know but someone should ask.

Nacho is the most under rated player we have. I have said it before and i will say it again, he is a model professional..never in the media, no fancy stupid haircut, no tattoos…just goes about his business on the pitch plus he has a great looking wife ! The new wing back role suits him plus he has a good understanding with sanchez and is probably the best crosser of the ball we have.
A lot of you jump on the age band wagon but as long as he stays fit and injury free he could go on for a few more years yet ..witness lahm and danni alves, two world class full backs well into their 30s.
I have not seen this kolsiniac guy play but i think he is going to have his work cut out displacing nacho so imo i think it should be gibbs we cash in on.